Central City / Black Hawk National Landmark Historic District
The 1878 Central City Opera House built by Welsh and Cornish miners is the most recognized of Central City Opera's Historic Properties within Central City / Black Hawk National Landmark Historic District. The Opera House is known for its elaborately frescoed ceiling, seats carved with the names of Colorado's pioneer families and notables of the American stage and opera, and its perfect acoustics. Today, the Central City Opera House features modern comforts with plush new seating, installed in 1999. Memorials from the old hickory chairs were transferred when the new seats were installed, with illustrious names like Horace Tabor, Buffalo Bill, Beverly Sills, and Lillian Gish carved on the backs of the seats.
The Teller House
When it opened its doors in 1872, the Teller House was the most opulent hotel between Chicago and San Francisco. Rooms cost $2 a night at a time when the going rate was 50 cents. Though no longer used as a hotel, the Teller House is the center for opera-related activities, such as receptions, recitals, a boutique, and the famous Face Bar with the "Face on the Barroom Floor" and classical murals on the surrounding walls. Located next door to the Opera House, the Teller House is also a living museum of Victorian artifacts and furniture once belonging to Baby Doe Tabor and Governor John Evans.
Williams Stables
Built in 1876, Williams Stables was a full-service livery for the guests of the Teller House across the street. The Opera House Association purchased Williams Stables from the city in 1953, and turned it into an intimate ninety-seat venue used for rehearsals, performances of short works of opera, and free pre-performance discussions known as Opera Notes.
Other Properties
Central City Opera also owns and maintains 28 other historic buildings including 25 residences, built in Central City between 1860 and 1900.
These properties, which fall outside of the Central City gaming district, have been the Association's responsibility since 1932.
For 75 years they have housed company operations, performers and technicians during the summer opera festival.
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